Niche Print Manufacturer

Service(s): Interim Management
Sector: Printing

A family printing firm, with little exposure to business best practise methods, but in a highly technical and specialist market sector, was in need of modernisation and work stream technology. Sales were diminishing,  their market was being eroded by European competitors, and there were issues with an autocratic MD and an out of touch Chairman.

Upon the advice of the company’s auditors, FRP Transition met with the client and, after an initial conversation, a senior industry CEO was appointed with in depth experience of the print sector. After retiring the incumbent MD, the immediate role was to stabilise the business from any fallout, either externally or internally, and to establish a new strategy for the business to deliver increased long term productivity and profitability.

During the 10 month assignment major change programmes were initiated, including a complete shop floor work stream, production processes, and the introduction of “lean” and “just in time” processes.  The salesforce was aligned to the business function by developing incentive schemes based on margins and volume, instead of discounts, and concentrating on Customer Relationship Management to help balance the flow of new and existing business.

Achievements included a reduction in working capital requirement for stock by £1000k and the expansion of the manufacturing capability, creating £400k of new added value to the group in the current year. A permanent CEO was recruited to carry the business forward.